Opened a couple really nice bottles with friends the other night and thought I’d share some quick notes.
The Mascot – Napa Valley 2019
Really expressive right away. On the nose we got a lot of dark fruit — blackberry, black cherry and cassis — along with some cocoa, cedar and a little vanilla from the oak. On the palate it was pretty rich and polished, medium to full-bodied with very smooth tannins. The fruit is ripe but balanced and there’s a long, clean finish. Feels young but already very enjoyable.
Zuccardi Finca Piedra Infinita – Paraje Altamira 2016 100 Robert Parker
Completely different style and super interesting. Aromas of fresh red fruit like cherry and raspberry, with floral notes (violets), plus some mineral and earthy character that really stands out. On the palate it’s very precise and elegant, medium-bodied with bright acidity and fine tannins. You really get that stony/mineral profile that Altamira wines are known for.
Fun contrast between the two — The Mascot felt more plush and Napa-style rich, while the Piedra Infinita was much more about freshness, structure and minerality.
Great bottles to open with friends. Curious what people here think about either of these.
by Excellent_Oven_9684